New treasurer getting education on the job

New Berks County Treasurer Dennis Adams said the staff assembled by his predecessor, Nelson H. Long, has made taking over easy.

The first thing Dennis Adams learned when he officially took over the office of Berks County treasurer Jan. 6 is that he has a lot to learn.

After the November election, he spent some time in the office with his predecessor, Nelson H. Long, to get a feel for his new responsibilities, Adams said.

Now, he's spent the last several weeks digging deeper, he said.

Among the treasurer's duties are handling the county's bank accounts, collecting taxes, issuing dog and hunting licenses, administering the state small games of chance and bingo laws and participating on the county pension board.

Adams has been taking time to read through applicable laws, familiarize himself with the department's budget and learn how tax claim sales work. He also is attending regular meetings where his participation is expected and getting set up as a signer on the county's bank accounts.

"There are little things you weren't anticipating, but take a little bit of time," he said. "You have to understand the operation before you make improvements. Getting acclimated to all these things takes time."

Some minor changes already have been made with the staff's help, enabling work to flow a little more smoothly, Adams said.

More change could occur, but it will be with input from staff and other departments that might be affected, he said.

His skills as a certified public accountant and certified management accountant and the connections he has in the community from when he worked in business should come in handy, Adams said.

Socrates Georgeadis, who had 10 years of experience in the office with Long, is continuing as department solicitor.

"I don't want to throw that experience away," Adams said. "He's been involved with all the tax issues, and I've worked with him outside of here a little bit."

The staff assembled by Long, who did not seek re-election, has made taking over easy, Adams said.

People who interact with the office, including those having difficulty paying their property taxes, should expect the same courteous service they received when Long was treasurer, he said.

"The staff is excellent," Adams said. "They county is lucky because these people are the backbone of the organization. They have not let me down."